Ever noticed your cat dragging their bottom across the floor? Overgrooming their tail and back end? Your cat may be having problems with their anal glands.

Although scooting and anal (bottom) irritation are often attributed to worms, that’s not always the cause, especially for indoor cats.

Let’s take a closer look at the slightly awkward (but very important) topic of your cat’s bottom. Is it glamorous? ‘fraid not. Is it a common problem? Likely more than we realise. Can anything be done? Read on.

In this comprehensive guide, I'll explain the cause of anal gland issues, how to recognise them and when to seek veterinary help.

What are cats’ anal glands and why do they have them?

The root causes: 7 reasons your cat’s anal sacs get blocked

7 clues your cat might have anal gland problems

What happens if you ignore anal gland problems?

Anal gland problems in cats rarely get better on their own.

Left untreated, they can lead to:

• Infection

• Abscess formation

• Severe pain

• Rupture and chronic or recurring difficulties

A red, painful swelling under your cat’s tail suggests they may have an abscess. Sometimes anal gland abscesses will burst through the skin, creating an open wound leaking smelly pus and blood next to the anus. 

Seek help from a vet as soon as possible if your cat shows symptoms of an anal gland abscess.

5 ways vets treat anal gland problems in cats

Should you empty your cat’s glands at home?

Owners sometimes ask us this question, especially for dogs. It’s a controversial topic. But for cats, the answer is a clear No! Not without veterinary guidance.

Cats are much less likely to tolerate this procedure than dogs are. 

• Poor or incorrect techniques can cause pain, burst glands, chronic inflammation or infection.

• Also, routine emptying ‘just in case’ can cause irritation and isn’t recommended for most cats.

• Healthy glands usually manage themselves.

Can you prevent anal gland problems in cats?

When to reach out to a vet

Seek urgent help (within 12 to 24 hours) if your cat is bleeding or in severe pain.

Contact a vet as soon as possible if your cat:

• Is scooting or licking their bottom and tail repeatedly

• Shows discomfort (agitation, vocalising) when passing stool

• Develops a bad smell

• Has swelling, redness or discharge near their anus

Treating anal glands early is relatively straightforward. Treating chronic or neglected problems is not.

Final thoughts

Anal gland problems in cats may not be the most pleasant topic. But your cat’s anal gland health is important. Most cases are quick and straightforward to treat and resolve completely if they’re caught early.

So if your cat starts paying a little too much attention to their back end, it’s not just odd behaviour. It’s communication. And it’s well worth listening to.

If you’re worried your cat has anal gland problems, Joii vets are available online - day or night - so you’re never alone in caring for your feline friend.

Download the Joii App today for expert support and peace of mind whenever you need it.